Factors associated with support-seeking behavior among AIAN women survivors of IPV

Objectives To understand how Native women seek support as survivors of intimate partner violence by examining factors associated with seeking formal support (e.g., medical, police), informal support (e.g., family, friends), or both types of support. Methods Data from the 2010 National Intimate and Sexual Violence Survey were analyzed among the AIAN oversamples. Descriptive statistics and odds ratio analyses were conducted to observe significant factors that are associated with adult Native women survivors seeking support. Results Survivors have higher odds of seeking informal supports than formal supports. Formal support is not often sought, however survivors had significantly higher odds of seeking therapy. Conclusions. While there are various avenues in which survivors may seek support, not all types of support are helpful to the survivor’s needs. However, this study is still valuable in distinguishing factors related to support-seeking and observing general relationships. Focused and intentional public health research on support for AIAN women survivors is needed to further understand how programs and policies can be improved.